Gunslinger 2 vs x3 lowdrag... Opinions?

[jeverett06]

Looking to buy either the gunslinger 2 or x3 lowdrag ebelestock packs. it will mostly be used for hunting whitetails in ok but want to be able to take out west for elk and mulies. I want to be able to carry my rifle along with a spotting scope as well with all the normal gear. Wanted to see which pack most guys thought would do the best job. Lets hear it.

Thanks,
Jr

 

[Alan Griffith]

Can't comment on the lowdrag but have a pretty good idea about the GSII.

I just competed in the 24hr Sniper Adventure Challenge a few weeks back.

2012 24-HOUR SNIPER ADVENTURE CHALLENGE - - COMPETITION DYNAMICS

This is a BRUTAL event where my partner and I covered about 34 miles over 7,000' No. Utah Mountains in 26-1/2 hrs. My GSII, with 11 lb all-up rifle, totaled 60 lbs. The pack carried very well and stood up to the rigors. In the 6 months preceding, I packed any where from 30 to 60 lbs 3 to 9 miles per week while training. Two mishaps; one side carry handle blew out and a rip at the top of the pack. Neither had zero effects on the packs effectiveness during the competition. The pack is now at EB's Boise facility being fixed for free. I like the 4 (two vertical and two horizontal) main pack compression straps to compress the weight close to my body and keep the load from shifting around during strenuous climbs/decents. At my 54 yrs age, I never could pull out nor insert a rifle while the pack was on my back. Maybe if the compression straps were loose I could, such as when hunting the pack light with typical daily hunting gear but once the pack is loaded down and the compression straps are cinched down; NADA. It has two slots, left and right side, for water bladder hoses and I used both with a 3L on the right and a 2L bladder on the left. My only complaint about EB packs are they can be heavy compared to some brands, I've been told.

Alan

 

[midnightmalloy]

For your application i would suggest a j34 or j107 eberlestck. These packs are small enough for a daypack yet expands to haul meat. Best combo!

 

[Alan Griffith]

For your application i would suggest a j34 or j107 eberlestck. These packs are small enough for a daypack yet expands to haul meat. Best combo!

Not sure what the J34 is as I cannot find it on the EB web site. I have the J107 and it, too, is a wonderful pack; the "go in light, come out heavy" theme works. I used it successfully to haul out a Utah spike elk in 2007. It is larger and heavier than the GSII. If hauling out a deer, the GSII would be large enough. If someday, an elk, the J107 is your ticket.

Here I am with my 7-1/2 lb 30-06 AI, basic hunting equipment and both elk rib cages and all the neck meat, leaving the scene of the crime.

Doesn't look like it but pack is HEAVY! Oh, and and you can see, my H20 drinking is uncovered/uninsulated. Get a cover to keep it from freezing. I was one thirsty hunter by the time I got back to the truck as the water would freeze in the tube.

Alan